One of Australia's most respected wine competitions is no more.
The Committee of the Canberra International Riesling Challenge has made the difficult decision to wind up the event after over a quarter of a century.
The Riesling Challenge was founded in 2000, and between 2000 and 2025 a total of 24 Challenges were held.
The peak number of entries in any year was 567 (2018) and the peak number of countries entering was nine countries (2019).
It was, at its peak, the largest single variety wine show in the southern hemisphere.
“Regrettably the increase in international airfreight and challenging economic conditions in the international and Australian wine industries post-Covid have significantly impacted entry levels, and despite our best efforts we have been unable to return to operating a revenue positive event," said James Service, the event chairman.
"Accordingly, the committee has agreed that ending the Challenge is the only appropriate course available.
“From the outset, the Challenge has benefited from well qualified and skilled judges, a strong and enthusiastic steward cohort, a professional management team, the support of the diplomatic community and generous and steadfast sponsors.
“With the support of the entrant wineries we have been highly successful in our stated aim of improving the quality of riesling available to consumers, and increasing consumer’s appreciation and understanding of riesling.”
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